Your first subcontract starts with a specific offer.

Educational content, not legal or procurement advice, and not an endorsement by any government agency. Solicitation documents and their amendments control.

Make the offer concrete

Choose one service, deliverable, location or role family. Describe what you can deliver now, who will do the work, the evidence supporting that capability and the constraints on your availability. Distinguish your individual experience from contracts performed by your new company.

Research buyers, then qualify the fit

GSA lists subcontracting resources, including SBA SubNet and prime-contractor directories. A listing is a research starting point, not proof of a current opening or a commitment to buy. Check the relevant supplier process and current requirements.

Ask a focused question: “Does your team use outside support for this task, and what evidence would you need to evaluate a new supplier?” Record the answer and the next appropriate step. Portal registration alone is not a sales opportunity.

Evaluate the first engagement

Clarify scope, acceptance criteria, responsibilities, required documents, delivery schedule and payment timing before committing. A small job is useful only if your business can perform it and support the cash requirements. Do not assume certifications guarantee work.

Explore GSA’s official opportunity and subcontracting resources.